To buy for Love or Logic?

M

Maxdar

Well-known member
Site Supporter
I've been looking for a starter cruiser for a few months, reading as many reviews and opinions as possible. Driving everyone around me crazy by obsessing on bikes.

But as spring approaches I know I'm going to need to make a choice. I also know that even though I've done as much research as I can, I will be tempted be shiny objects.

So GTA, would you recommend...

1) buying a bike that has that Love at first sight" feeling, even if it means spending a bit more than budgeted for
2) buying a bike that is practical, meets your criteria that will serve well for a few years and you could grow to love...

Did you spend the extra $$'s and regret it?
Did you walk away and now still think, "what if... "?

I do have a bike in mind and every time I imagine myself on it I get this big stupid grin. (Cycleworld superstore, one with all the shiny skulls) The last time I felt that way about a vehicle was a Toyota 4Runner. Spent too much, but it did make me smile every day.
 
Depends what your use is. If its an everyday use kind of thing, id say stick with practicality. Your going to have to live with it everyday, and you'll want something reliable an comfortable. The fact that I'm on 2 wheels puts a smile regardless.

If your a weekend warrior, get something that'll give you that tingle. You'll seldom ride it, so making every ride that much more special may be worth it.

I'm the same when I see something shiny, ill want it. And I'm sure you have logical thinking and street smarts, but make sure what you see is mechanically sound obviously.

Safe riding!
 
You have to find a balance unless you want more than one bike. But I always keep this thought in my head "it's my bike, not my only bike." You can always change your mind down the road. Buy what feels right. Have fun & be safe
 
Jampy00 said:
You have to find a balance unless you want more than one bike. But I always keep this thought in my head "it's my bike, not my only bike." You can always change your mind down the road. Buy what feels right. Have fun & be safe
Click to expand...

exactly!
 
I'm with Paul1000RR on this one. But if you've got a particular hardon for a specific bike then I say relieve the pressure and go for it. You'll either be really happy you did or the crush will wear off once reality sets in and you realize it's not practical for your needs. Either way, your next purchase will be a more informed one. Happy hunting!
 
Jampy00 said:
You have to find a balance unless you want more than one bike. But I always keep this thought in my head "it's my bike, not my only bike." You can always change your mind down the road. Buy what feels right. Have fun & be safe
Click to expand...

More than one bike?!? Now you're talking, only problem is I will want them all!!

I know it won't be my "only" bike, I just don't want to miss the "rush" of getting that first (cruiser) bike. I have a small CBR that was my very first starter, build skills and confidence and all that. So I've been practical once. Also I'm not looking at a 1700, either choice I will still keep a gradual upgrade to match skills. (for safety)
Also, saw some riders picked up deals at the Show in Jan. Another show is coming up in Mar. I feel like I "should" be patient and see what there is under one roof. I don't like quick pressure sales. "if you buy today..." Makes me run the other way.
 
Buy for love, IF you can afford it.

Whether its practical or not, because of that "crush" you'll be forgiving for all the minor niggles.

Then when you win the lotto, go for the harem.
 
When I was picking out my cruiser...I swore this time it would be a Harley, all my buddies were finally thinking I'd be gettin a HD of some kind...tried several...none fit right or something lacking. But when I saw and sat on my Victory Hammer....the smile came over my face and the salesman said I never would have guessed you would liked this bike. But this is the first bike here you have gotten excited about....guess dry humping it in the showroom kinda let the cat out of the bag....lol.
The Buell was the perfect choice fo me practically speaking and loving the machine. Hope I have the same luck with the Hammer.
 
The trick is to learn to see the rediculousness in anything frivulous right off the hop, that'l save you untold anguish over a lifetime. I'm only half joking.
 
Don't put yourself in a financial crunch to ride. You should be able to find something that brings a smile to your face and can afford to own and operate. The grins should come from a peek as is sleeps for the winter and a bigger grin when you start it up and a smile that will last a winter when you park it at the end of the season.


I have a list of machines I'd love to own before I die. If today is the day, I don't have any regrets or feel like I missed out. I've probably forgot more machines I want to own and ride than I'll ever get to in reality.

What ever you do, don't get something that doesn't stir the soul. Why bother? Just get yourself beige Corolla and call it a day.
 
You only live this life once....do as you see fit.
 
Depends on what the debate between the two (or more) is -- I'd never choose pure form over function (aka looks great but isn't great to ride), but if it just comes down to one bike being a little out of budget and/or a little 'excessive', I'd say go for the one that makes your heart beat faster.
 
You should walk into the garage, glance at the bike, and smile. Whether that smile is because you know how bad a s s it is, or because you love the MPG savings and get to be smug about it at the pumps, it should always be that smile that keeps you coming back.

Otherwise, it's just an appliance.
 
The day I buy a "practical bike" over cool ...please I beg of you shoot me.
 
Lightcycle said:
If you already own a car or truck, then this motorcycle will never be your "practical" vehicle. Get what you love, if you need something practical for the day, take the cage.
Click to expand...

I love sportbikes but they're not good for touring. Shall I skip the adventure bike & go for a cage?

Sent from my tablet using my paws
 
Kool said:
The day I buy a "practical bike" over cool ...please I beg of you shoot me.
Click to expand...

. 45 or. 22??

Sent from my tablet using my paws
 
RockerGuy said:
I love sportbikes but they're not good for touring. Shall I skip the adventure bike & go for a cage?
Click to expand...

Why only these two options?

Sport touring? Bar risers/touring seat/higher screen/softbags on the sportbike?

Bikes will never be as practical as cars/trucks. You get cold, you get wet, they don't stay as upright as 4-wheelers. If you're dead set on riding a sportbike and none of the touring options above work for you, then take your vacation in a car.

If you don't like adventure bikes, I wouldn't buy one and be miserable that I wasn't riding a sportbike.

But that's just me...
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom